How to Make Chinese-style Stir-Fried Peppers with Tofu
Chinese-style stir-fried peppers with tofu is a delicious and healthy dish that is easy to prepare at home. This recipe focuses on bell peppers and tofu, complemented by vibrant flavors that come from various sauces and spices. With a few simple steps, you can create a delightful meal that’s perfect for dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients
- 1 block of firm tofu
- 2 bell peppers (red and green, sliced)
- 3 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon of ginger (grated)
- 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tofu
Start by pressing the tofu to remove excess moisture. Wrap the block of tofu in a clean kitchen towel and place a weight (like a heavy pan) on top for about 15-20 minutes. Once pressed, cut the tofu into cubes.
Step 2: Marinate the Tofu
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce and cornstarch. Add the cubed tofu and gently toss to coat. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Peppers
Heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large non-stick pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until they are tender yet still crisp. Remove the peppers from the pan and set them aside.
Step 4: Cook the Tofu
In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Once hot, add the marinated tofu cubes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the tofu is golden brown on all sides. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, and stir-fry for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 5: Combine and Season
Return the stir-fried peppers to the pan with the tofu. Drizzle sesame oil over the mixture and season with salt and pepper according to your taste. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
Step 6: Serve
Remove from heat and transfer the stir-fry to a serving plate. Garnish with chopped green onions. This dish can be served alone or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Use fresh, vibrant peppers for the best flavor and texture.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas for extra nutrition.
- Adjust the level of soy sauce according to your sodium preference.
- If you like it spicy, add some chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes.
This Chinese-style stir-fried peppers with tofu recipe is not only quick to make but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep, it’s sure to please everyone at your table!